"Like most people, I knew something about AIDS and HIV, but I believed it could never happen to me. When a friend told me about the quick and confidential test offered by the African American Health Program, I decided it couldn't hurt. When the test came back positive, I was shocked. A counselor was available right then to help me. Ever since, the AAHP has continued to offer me information, referrals and support. I'm not saying it's been easy, but today I am living with confidence, with hope-and yes, with AIDS."

From Testing to Treatment,
Help Is Here

HIV and AIDS

Although African Americans make up only 13 percent of the total US population, we represented 50 percent of the HIV/AIDS cases in 2003. The mission of the African American Health Program is to help eliminate health disparities in the Black population in Montgomery County, Md.

AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome) was first reported in the United States in 1981 and has since become a major worldwide epidemic. AIDS is caused by HIV (human immunodeficiency virus). HIV is spread most commonly by having unprotected sex with an infected partner.

If you test positive for HIV, the disease can be managed so that you stay well, delay the onset of AIDS, and prevent some life-threatening conditions from emerging. From testing to treatment, the AAHP is actively addressing HIV/AIDS in the Black community.